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I had the pleasure of linking up with Maine The Medicine to chop it up about his forthcoming solo album titled “B.U.T.C.H” (Built Under The Culture’s Hands). Fans can expect the LP to drop August 6th on all major platforms. MJ: Your new album B.U.T.C.H. (Built Under The Culture’s Hands) debuts everywhere August 6th. After listening to the album, I think it’s fair to state this is by far the most superior of album releases. Can you go into detail about the correlation between the title of the album and MAINE as an artist? Maine: The title B.U.T.C.H is in honor of my father who for the last two years has been through so much, from dialysis to both legs being amputated, and not knowing what his day to day would look like. I know there were times he wanted to give up, but he hung in there and kept fighting. Witnessing that I wanted to show my father the ultimate respect and name the album after him, plus he was the first one to introduce me to Hip-Hop. My first two records he bought for me were Kurtis Blow and New Edition. Between my father and cousins Sudan and Barkin from Queensbridge, and my uncle Stevie, a Latin percussionist who played with Luther Vandross for 20 years… I was raised under music. That’s where ‘built under the culture’s hand’ derives from. To a fault Hip-Hop consumes my entire life from the way I think, dress, and talk. All I ever wanted to do was rap. Even now at the age of 42 all I want to do is rap and let the world hear my music. MJ: This 22-track LP epitomizes the essence of Hip-Hop and upon release will potentially push the culture to the forefront. Talk about everything that went into creating this album. It’s evident this was a skilled mastery in the making. Maine: I went into this album with the mindset of curating something personal and special. I wanted to give the fans that gritty Maine with the punches, but also give them a candid look into my life and some of the things I have been going through. Music is truly the best therapy whether your writing or listening to it. I want my album to show great lyricism and storytelling, and to give the younger generation a reason to appreciate our culture; learn from it instead of rebelling against it. I carefully handpicked people who I knew were Hip-Hop fans to express their love for the culture and who or what made them fall in love with it… Although I hate to sound cliché, this album takes you on a journey. MJ: The production embodies the perfect blend of soulful undertones, gritty mixes, and of course that classic boom bap heavy bass. That arrangement intensifies your clever wordplay and rhyme schemes. Tell us about that emcee and production chemistry. Maine: Going into the album I knew I wanted a certain feel and vibe to the album. That boom bap and soulful feel has always been my sound. I knew with this being my solo project I had to go back to that sound. I must give a huge shout to my big homie U.G for pushing to do another solo project, “Maine when you gonna work on that project, I’m waiting for you lil bro, I got you.” He started crafting some heat for me and flawlessly fell in line with the sound I wanted. Then he jumped on the “M.A.I.N.E” track and the ball started rolling. Native Seals was also a major influence to push this solo project. My second single “Let Me Love” featuring Ty Soul is one of the many gems I got from Native. Of course, I needed to include production from my 20-year crew I.M.F Catacombs with Willy Sully and Da Leadgeon. They know my style and right off the bat they went in without me having to say anything and created 5 joints on the album. I also was blessed to have production from Father Focus Confusous, Jlstudios, Big City, and Know- it. MJ: It was difficult to pinpoint album favorites, as each track flawlessly transcends into the next track. However, “MAINE” did stand out for a couple of reasons. In the industry there’s a craze that after a certain age rhyming should be left for resumes so the younger generation can shine. The issue with that is there’s a fair number of young artists who are not ‘built under the culture’s hand’, not willing to learn the history of Hip-Hop, and are not creating music for the purpose of longevity. “MAINE” nails that from beginning to end with in your face, stay in your lane lyrics. Share your insight on that track. Maine: That track was produced by U.G and features U.G of the legendary Cella Dwellas. He was so invested in that track. I did a hook for it, but he wanted to take it up a notch. So now that track is on steroids especially once he jumped on it. Honestly, I was becoming frustrated with the lack of effort in the verses I here now a days, rapping over the vocals, and following the hottest trend. Once I heard the beat, I just unleashed that frustration. The hook defines me and what I’m about, which is a product of my era who was ‘built under the culture’s hand’… Some of my personal favorite tracks are “Never Fails”, “Dedication”, “I’m Trying”, and “let me love you” just to name a few. MJ: Take this time to share with fans and listeners anything else they can expect from “B.U.T.C.H” Maine: Aw man I want the fans to know I put so much thought, effort, and heart into this project. I want them to see how much I have grown as an artist, and that I will continue to push myself to be creative and not become stagnant. I’m also coming out with a solo EP produced by my catacombs team, an I.M.F EP is also in the works, a Mercy Gang album, Maine and Ty Soul EP, CBC 2, and a couple of other projects are in the works… I’m 42 I need to keep making music while I can because tomorrow is not promised. I want to give a special s/o and respect to the artists featured on the album including U.G, Suspect, Elz Sinatra, Ren Thomas, my B.O.B brothers Holla Da Scholar and Mercy, Will Sully, Paulie, Da Leadgeon, Lambo Lo, Ty soul, Amanda Rogan, Jay Preston, Dan Schultz, James Ebron, Vision, Bomber The Monsta, and DJ TMB. It was truly an honor to work with all these amazing artists. Here’s a sneak peek into what’s to come. Watch the official video for “Live From The Catacomb” off the forthcoming “B.U.T.C.H” album. Connect with Maine The Medicine on Facebook | Twitter

Big Smooth links with FlyTy of Rockboy G’z for powerful new music “Set My People Free”, produced by Jonny P and executively produced by legendary ‘Hit Maker’ D/R Period. Big Smooth unleashes a revolutionary anthem with no negotiating, “now I’m bucking at high targets, elevation.” Lyrical commander in chief, Smooth addresses societal issues along with multiple elephants in the room, while FlyTy intensifies the insurgency by calling out trickeries. Jonny P and D/R Period provide a spectroscope of thumping bass and rabid tones allowing the 2-man army to pave the streets locked and loaded with lyrical grenades, serving imperative justice. Stream “Set My People Free” and connect with Big Smooth below. Facebook | Instagram | Twitter

Hold Me Down Music Group & Devilz Advocates present empowering single titled “I Believe In You”, produced by Chill Beatz with mixing and mastering done by DMenace. The collective has been topping indie charts with their recently released debut LP "The Curse Is Lifted", and now they bring you a multi-genre infused motivational record. SINN and DMenace deliver non appraised jewels that reinforce beating the odds, grinding towards success, and self-worth. While Maserati's celestial vocals imprint a hair-raising chill and amplifies the theme of believing in oneself, "spread your wings, do your thing, and soar." Chill Beatz injects a kaleidoscope of R&B, pop, rendered soul, and urban tones for a mastered gem to be heard worldwide. Stream “I Believe In You” above and follow Devilz Advocates below. Web | Facebook

Boogie Down’s Danielle Black releases visuals for the second single “Rolli” off her latest, chart topping EP “Solid Gold.” The multifaceted singer, rapper, songwriter, and actress links with K. Smyllz and Santos to deliver a unique ‘seize the bag’ hypnotic track. The video mimics an ‘Alice in Wonderland’ theme with Black portrayed as the Red Queen. Her next level lyrics define her untouchable stance as she reigns on top in a league of her own. When it comes to the level up and industry buzz, Black is dominating which is confirmed through Smyllz’s cunning verse. Santos mixes a slightly haunting tone over thumbing bass and electric pulsations, which heightens the rawness and stature of the ‘Red Queen’. Watch “Rolli” above. Follow Danielle Black on Social Media – Facebook | Instagram | Web | Twitter

Rockwelz releases visuals for “Mxnxpxly MOBB” , the third video off his latest album "Rock Stories by Aesop Rock." The reputable NY artist links with John Jigg$ for back to back slick, quick-witted bars and superior storytelling that features a verse from the late Prodigy to valorize the track. Innovatively, Rockwelz utilizes the video to depict a time when emcees got together to vibe out and shared rhyme schemes about downfalls and come ups. This is not your typical mobbed out video, in fact both Rockwelz and Jigg$ embody growth from a rough past in lieu of vivid and gimmick free storytelling. “Mxnxpxly MOBB” is affluent with boom bap cadences and enraptured tones set to revive the essence of Hip-Hop, while Rockwelz and John Jigg$ awaken the dissipated authenticity of lyricism. Watch “Mxnxpxly MOBB” above.

Its a little deeper than rap as Kony Brooks stated on his now live its all about meaning within the lyrics in his latest visual directed by Teddy Grahams and TrizzEyeView When artists come to you to help bring their stories and visions to a positive light it is truly an honor. Their voices are silenced on a day to day basis by negativity of the INDIEstry and the societal pressures bestowed upon us, many artists are scared to speak their truth, except for one. In the duration of time that I know him Kony has always looked to teach us something through his words and his actions. If you personally know Kony Brooks he seriously cares about people and the community around him. As a program director in the school he works for he constantly looks for the well-being and look to guide the children that are in his program, while giving his whole self in his music. His video for Three Fifths continues to show us a special message, with the events surrounding Nipsey Hustle's death we must start to be mutually mindful of each other and stop the hate.The video starts and ends with Kony , Scorpio P. and a young gentleman being pressed up against the wall by cops. One of the cops were played by singer songstress Julz.Kony tells us a story the day to day story we see everyday of the segregation and the racism not only within our culture but with community. Young men struggling to make ends meat by stealing and hustling, while there are some with their day to day jobs trying to live their lives as uncomplicated as possible. Kony plays the guidance counselor to the young boy hustling in the streets trying to steer him in the right directions so he does not end up like many others that have came before them. With cameos by Scorpio P. and Ray Fame the other scene shows the hardworking black man trying to make ends meet and still getting short changed with Kony being the words of wisdom to keep pushing and fighting. After watching this video i contemplate the following questions, why are we hating each other, why does it take someone to die or to get arrested to make a statement. Why are we screaming free our brothers after they are gone but they were talking shit when they were walking with us. We are supposed to love each other and be a community. Why cant we stop the hate and violence, we are killing our own kind we are killing others. Kony is showing us we should fight through the hate. This video is one of my favorite videos from him and I am honored to have had the chance to see this and give my thoughts as he releases this to the world. Follow Kony Brooks everywhere at @konybrooks Follow Rawrrzone at @rawrrzonenyc

Dumb Ugly release visuals for the first single off their debut album “Casket” , set to release on April 14th, 2019. “Stay Dead” is a mini film luring viewers into their bizarre, ‘Clockwork Orange’ circus. It begins with an irate man calling an Uber to break free from his alcohol consuming, pregnant lover. He’s picked up by Biz Mighty and they veer off to grab partner in crime, Aayu for an unfathomable voyage. The duo holds the confused man at gunpoint forcing him to inhale unknown substances and once he regurgitates, the madness unfolds. Biz delivers no filter, gut wrenching punchlines alongside Aayu while massacring scenes like ‘Natural Born Killers.’ The arrangement of aggressive and intense tones amplifies the rawness of “Stay Dead.” Aayu provides a psychedelic intermission of electronic thumping beats mixed with modern Hip-Hop cadences. Controversial in deliverance, Dumb Ugly trigger thought provoking read between the lines, and caution tape scenarios that occur regularly in communities brimming with corruption and conceit. Watch “Stay Dead” above. Follow Dumb Ugly https://www.instagram.com/dumb.ugly dumbugly.bigcartel.com

Legendary music icon Doodlebug Cee-Knowledge presents up and coming singer, songwriter, and recording artist KROWN. The Tri-State area talented and versatile artist delivers a modern flow of Funk and Alternative Hip-Hop for all generations of music purists and enthusiasts to embrace. KROWN's debut project “Nothing Lasts Forever” is available for free streaming and download. The mixtape is executively produced by Cee-Knowledge with contributing production by Quickly Quickly, Steve Young, Beatjoven, LA Soulchyld, RIVR, Oui Lele, Whitecliffs, Strkfr, Krapf, and Cairo. "I chose this as the name for my first project because I feel like those words perfectly capture the stage I’m at in life right now. The theme of this project is saying goodbye to the old me, the way I used to be, the things I used to believe, the way I used to see the world. This is a compilation of songs that prior to this, I would’ve been too scared to show anyone, let alone the world. At 22, This not only marks the beginning to my career but the beginning of who I truly am and what I’m truly supposed to be doing in this world. Because as they say, Nothing Last Forever.."--KROWN The leading single/video "Wassup" describes a young man looking for love while weeding out deceptive women and remaining focused on success. KROWN displays intermittent jazzy vocals and ear captivating lyrics over an arrangement of fused soul and effervescent production originally sampled from Donell Jone’s 1999 R&B hit “U Know What’s Up.” Stream "Nothing Lasts Forever" on Bandcamp . About KROWN KROWN’s movement in the music industry thus far hasn’t gone without notice or recognition. His journey began early on in high school when he formed a rap group and released a few local hits. From there he scored several modeling gigs with BET, Phat Farm, and Nickelodeon. After a brief hiatus KROWN ventured out to Los Angeles to reinvent his musical journey and to evolve the record label and collective Uplifted World.

Over the last few weeks we heard buzzing about the infamous YSA not knowing who he was but social media would be flooding with his name. Being managed by the illustrious L.Banks The Bossy and Lotta Money House Entertainment the artist came out with the vision, well a Point Guard Vision. He discusses what he wants in life and he lays down the plan to get it. With a style ranging beyond the normal J.Coles and Kendricks of the world he is laying the foundation of what his path is going to be. Whats amazing about this video is that its not just one video, its actually three. So you get three different videos for the price of one! Its amazing to see artists adapt and think out of the box when it comes to their music. Shoutout to YZA! Follow him on Instagram @hollywoodysa Follow us on IG @mnrawrrnyc

Daniel Dominguez or currently known as Hugo Sings has been in the industry for quite a while. He surprised us in his beginnings with his melodic and soulful covers, perform at the local events captivating the attention of everyone there. With soulful and deep eyes, a voice, and personality to light up the room its hard to find an artist that can captivate an audience the way Hugo does. We met Hugo a few years ago at a Valentines day event presented by Funky Amor and he has stayed on our radar since. Currently we at Rawrrzone are in awe as he blew us away with an amazing project that sets him apart from other artists in his genre. Working Class Hero a project title that fits the characteristic of the young artist. Sings would go from his tiring 9-5 and work on his true passion once nightfall came. What makes him standout from the traditional R&B vocalist is his beat selection as well as his story line. Let me explain, each one of the tracks on his EP has a different vibe, that stands outside of the "standard" of RNB. Hugo mixes his love of alternative / rock music and sprinkles it into the music. Its quite refreshing listening to this the EP will have you in a trance like Alice when she fell down the rabbit hole. Lets get into why I say this, the two songs that spark something inside me when I listen to this EP. Dark Place - Can Somebody Anybody Help Me I dont think I ever been in such a dark place, I actually want to be in a dark place if he sings like this. This is the track where you will love to close your eyes and want to see what hes seeing within the song, what is it that he fears being in that dark place. He paints the storyline for you and in your mind you can replay it. What adds to the mystic is the guitar styling of Eric Jayk of Wildstreet. In addition Jayk gave us his musical direction in All My Love, where we not only see the musical genius that is Hugo but we see Jayk into his other role as producer giving us such a melodic heartfelt ballad in All My Love, after listening to that you want to be the one that gets all of his love. Lastly, the debut single 8 or 9 has us jamming to the beat as it is a tune that you want to continue cruising down the highway to go for a night out. As an artist he has showed us how he can be versatile both vocally, melodically, and lyrically as his bio stated he will be a force to be reckoned with, we can not wait to see what Hugo has in store for us now. Follow him on IG @hugo_sings Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/itshugosings/ Follow us on Facebook : www,facebook.com/mondaynightrawrrnyc Twitter : @rawrrzonenyc Instagram : @mnrawrrnyc

Steve ‘lets go guy’ Sxaks , a renowned producer, musician, engineer, and teacher links with young rising star and MC Kohn for the creation of M.A.D.E. This debut producer/MC collaboration spans beyond music. M.A.D.E is a movement and brand already sparking a blaze in Philly and Southern Jersey. “I’m a strong lyricist with a positive message and I truly want to make a difference in the world. The movement which stands for Make A Difference Everyday, will have a huge impact on humanity.” -KOHN The 9-track EP “New Dawn City” embodies classic storytelling, thought provoking lyricism, catchy anthems, and even something for the ladies. “Welcome To New Dawn City” and “Ambition” are catchy anthem style records for clubs and house parties. While the smooth, hypnotic flow of “Driveway” will wake the ladies and “Glo” will wake and motivate the masses to grind until they reach their shine. “M.A.D.E”, “City Limits”, “Trial”, and “Crash” are records filled with lyrical venom and hard truths about a come up, moving forward, and claiming a deserved stance in the music industry and life. The transcendental chemistry between Kohn and Sxaks is a driving force set to take over indie Hip-Hop music. The production stirs up a kaleidoscope of soundscapes and tones from jazz and funk to a fusion of old school meets new school cadences, to electric pulsating beats perfectly blended for a unique ‘ear milk’ deliverance. Stream and/or purchase "New Dawn City" EP here

Some people asked where is Meko Sky since the closing of the illustrious radio station of WVMR. Since September of 2018 he has been under the radar cooking something we would never expect. During his last shows of Loud Silence Radio Meko informed us that when he comes back you will see a different side of him. The recent project he put out shows us hes a man of his word. I normally do not compare independent artists to their colleagues but Meko went from his laid back yet meaningful music to a more direct / philosophical approach the flow in some of his songs reminds you of Zeyi mixed with J.Cole when you listen to his words. The project is an experiment of Meko's musical talent and we are definitely enjoying it. Thx 4 Listening was not a very feature heavy compilation with ten tracks there are features from Hookz Murdock, Nequasia and of course his brother Quest who is also a rapper. I hear alot of emotion coming out of Meko in the first track Sorry where he apologizes to his fans for being gone for so long. Our favorites come from Lost Souls, Road , and Sorry. Lets start with Road , the flow has a boombap feel mixed with a tunnel vision type of feel. This should be his first single the chemistry between Hookz Murdock and Meko Sky is chismit. They have had chemistry leading back to before the Loud Silence Cypher two years ago. When they are together there are forever bars, the song currently is one of the bests I have seen from the Bronx MC. Lost Souls reminds me of my own life where no matter what the stumbles we still getting through, and to hold our head up in order to keep going. Club Atlantis however surprised me it not only brought out the eerie sounds of the Weeknd in this project but it also brought a side of his brother Quest that we never saw before. The track showed that both artists have diversified in their craft within the last year. The flow and the rhythm makes you want to go to Club Atlantis for that one night. Have they become the new bedroom bullies? Make sure you stream it on all media platforms and follow Meko Sky on IG @mekosky Make sure you follow us on Instagram @mnrawrrnyc Twitter @rawrrzonenyc and like us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/mondaynightrawrrnyc/